Tool Maker - Spring Lake Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Spring Lake (MI); On-site; USD 56,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

Pivot Group Network in Michigan is seeking a skilled Tool Maker for Spring Lake, MI. The role involves fabricating, modifying, and repairing tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures to support precision manufacturing.

You'll interpret blueprints and GD&T, operate mills, lathes, grinders, and EDMs, and perform exacting inspections. A minimum of five years in tool making or related fields is expected, with formal apprenticeship preferred.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent; formal apprenticeship or vocational training in Tool Making preferred.
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in tool making, mold making, or precision machining in manufacturing.
• Able to read blueprints/tech drawings and GD&T specifications.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate, alter, and repair tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures.
• Interpret blueprints, schematics, and engineering drawings.
• Operate precision tools: lathes, mills, grinders, and EDMs.
• Perform precision measurements to ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Troubleshoot tool performance and processes.
• Select materials and heat treatments for tooling.
• Maintain and calibrate tooling and equipment.

Skills

Blueprint reading

GD&T knowledge

Precision measurements

Problem solving

Mentoring

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Apprenticeship in Tool Making

Tool and Die making certification

Tools

Milling machines

Lathes

Grinders

EDMs

CNC programming

Job description

Tool Maker | Spring Lake, MI

Salary Range: $56,000 - $88,000 depending on experience

Are you ready to take on a challenging and rewarding opportunity in {{role_field}}? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to building meaningful connections in manufacturing. We partner with leading companies in Spring Lake seeking Tool Makers.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with manufacturing firms in Spring Lake that are seeking skilled Tool Makers. These organizations are dedicated to maintaining high standards and are looking for professionals who can contribute effectively. By joining our network, you position yourself for opportunities aligned with your career goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Fabricate, alter, and repair a variety of tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures.
• Interpret complex blueprints, schematics, and engineering drawings.
• Operate a wide range of precision machine tools, including lathes, mills, grinders, and EDMs.
• Perform precision measurements using various inspection tools to ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to tool performance and manufacturing processes.
• Select appropriate materials and heat treatments for optimal tool function and longevity.
• Maintain and calibrate tooling and equipment to ensure accuracy and operational efficiency.

Recommended Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent; completion of a formal apprenticeship program or vocational training in Tool Making preferred.
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in tool making, mold making, or precision machining within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints, technical drawings, and GD&T specifications.
• Demonstrated expertise in operating a variety of manual and CNC machine tools (mills, lathes, grinders, EDMs).
• Strong understanding of metallurgy, heat treatment processes, and material properties relevant to tooling.
• Ability to use a wide range of precision measuring instruments and perform complex inspections.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with CAD/CAM software for tool design and programming.
• Familiarity with EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) or Wire EDM processes.
• Certification in a relevant field such as machining, tool and die making, or mechanical technology.
• Proven ability to mentor apprentices or train junior toolmakers.
• Experience with precision measurement tools beyond basic calipers and micrometers (e.g., CMM, optical comparators).

Job Titles That Should Apply

Tool and Die Maker, Die Maker, Mold Maker, Precision Machinist, CNC Tool Maker, Journeyman Tool Maker, Tooling Fabricator, Tooling Technician, Prototype Tool Maker, Jig and Fixture Builder